The Stanislavsky Factory is the practice's first completed project in Moscow. The scheme has attracted widespread acclaim and is recognised as setting a new benchmark for innovative, adaptive re-use of historic buildings in Moscow.

Sensitively linking refurbished historic elements and new interventions, the Stanislavsky Factory has become a new cultural destination for Moscow. Originally developed by one of Russia's leading industrialists and cultural patrons, the Stanislavsky family, in the 19th century, this complex mixed-use business and cultural project consists of thirteen buildings including 30,000 sqm of office space and 60 luxury apartments, as well as a hotel and restaurant.

The site has an extraordinary history and includes a theatre, built by the actor Konstantin Stanislavsky, son of the original owner, and famed as the inventor of the Method acting system. This theatre is celebrated for hosting the first performance of Chekhov’s ‘Cherry Orchard’ and has been refurbished to become a new focal point of cultural activity in Moscow.

The redevelopment of this site has, from the outset, been considered as both an architectural and urban landscape scheme. The project’s fully integrated landscaping – also designed by the practice – seamlessly links the constituent elements, unifying the development as a whole. By physically and visually integrating the landscape with the architectural elements, the practice has created a socially permeable site – a new

new concept in Moscow, where the majority of developments are gated.

The landscape design provides a coherent context linking 13 buildings of varying age, material, style, and orientation. Bands of planting and paving provide a continuous and vibrant rhythm across the site.

The design creates a series of interlinked public and semi-private open space comprising squares, gardens and routes, as well as peaceful oases with seating areas, pergolas, benches and places for relaxation. Two enclosed courtyards feature timber decking and birch and cherry trees, the latter referencing the first performance of Chekhov’s ‘Cherry Orchard’ in the Stanislavsky Theatre.

Trees of different heights and colours define routes, helping to define a sense of place, softening the built environment and contributing to physical, cultural and spiritual well being. Diverse planting beds arranged at different heights include low level evergreen groundcover, herbaceous species, perennials and grasses, offerings year round interest.